Governor threatens tough measures against Indo Muro Kencana occupation

Central Kalimantan governor had threatened to take tough measures against the Dayak tribes people who have been occupying some parts of the gold mine owned by Indo Muro Kencana, a subsidiary of Australia's Aurora Gold, Kapos daily reported.

Rapiudin Hamurang recently said the months-long occupation had tarnished the image of the province before foreign investors and would discourage foreign investment from entering the province.

He said the people who occupied the gold mine demanded huge compensations for their land but they could not show documents proving their ownership of their land.

He said Indo Muro Kencana had threatened to withdraw from the province if the cocupation was not ended.

Thousands of Dayak people had been occupying the contract areas of Indo Muro in the districts of Murung, Tanah Siang and Permata Intan, North Barito regency since the middle of last year, claiming the area belonged to their ancestors.

The resident of six villages close to the gold mine however oppose to the actions, calling on Indo Muro to continue their exploration activities.

The governor called on the security personnel to keep the villagers from occupying other areas and guard the operations of the company. (*)